Can I get a different job at 51?

[OneGreyBiscuit]

I currently work in a supermarket and while I quite like the job and fairly good at it, I really need a change. I have to get up about 2.40am four times a week and have done for 10 years and I'm exhausted and not having much of a Christmas and having to get up at that time to come in new years day this year is not a thrilling prospect. Has anyone been able to change their job at my age and to what? To add, my job is very demanding physically and I don't think I'm going to be able to do this until I'm 67 (or older).

Hi OP, can you do any sort of admin work? I changed from retail to a desk job at your age, it was less physically demanding. I was already computer literate, and was lucky to get training on the job.

I worked there as a receptionist for a few years until Covid hit, then took early retirement. I have to say though, I tried for several jobs before that, at 50, and didn't get any offers. It isn't fair but in low skilled jobs our age is against us, but I've put my retail & computer skills to use and sell online now, taught myself Photoshop and design printables to sell on Etsy and other platforms. It'll tide me over until my state pension.

Of course it all depends on what you want to do, if it's something vastly different to retail you may need to re-train. Good luck!

Any chance of different retail shift the job market not great but have you thought about schools support staff, admin etc not great pay but nicer hours.

No. At 51 you are locked into that role for life or you go to prison. 😁

it’s harder post-50 to switch jobs but it’s by no means impossible, assuming it’s one of the big supermarkets look internally first for development programs and learning opportunities etc

A job in a school would be great, in the office would be ideal, I'll just have to keep looking.

Try these public sector job sites
https://www.jobsgopublic.com
https://www.jobs.nhs.uk/candidate
https://www.civilservicejobs.service.gov.uk/csr/index.cgi

Public Sector don’t discriminate based on age, many people join in their 50s.

Yes, I would try your local council or similar. I am the same age as you and changed jobs not so long ago. It was tough because the process is rigorous and demands that you back everything up with evidence. Look at info online about the STAR method.

I joined the civil service at 48. The application and interview process is very structured but worth it if you can get in.